Hippuritidae

Hippuritidae is a family of bivalve mollusks belonging to the order Veneroida. They are commonly known as the "hippurites" or "hippuritids." This family is characterized by its distinctive, often asymmetrical shells, which are typically elongated and flattened. The shells are usually composed of aragonite, a form of calcium carbonate, and can vary in size from a few centimeters to over a meter in length.

Hippuritidae are found in marine environments, primarily in shallow to moderately deep waters. They are often associated with rocky substrates and can be found in various habitats, including coral reefs and rocky shores. The family includes both living and fossil species, with many extinct forms known from the Paleozoic era.

The biology of Hippuritidae is relatively well understood. They are filter feeders, using their siphons to draw in water and filter out food particles. The family is known for its complex life cycles, which often involve a planktonic larval stage. Some species are hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.

Hippuritidae have been studied for their potential use in biomineralization research, as their shells provide valuable insights into the processes of mineral formation and growth. They are also of interest to paleontologists due to their abundance in the fossil record, offering clues about past marine environments and evolutionary history.